Key takeaways
Most Australians aren’t where they thought they’d be financially—and that’s okay.
But often, the biggest reason is this: they’ve never truly decided to be wealthy.
Wealth doesn’t happen by chance. It’s the result of conscious, consistent decisions and actions over time.
The most successful investors aren’t always the smartest—they’re the most committed.
They make wealth-building a non-negotiable priority, not an optional side quest.
Let me ask you a confronting question.
Are you where you thought you’d be financially by now?
If you’re like most Australians, the answer is probably “not quite” – and that’s OK. In fact, you’re not alone.
But let’s take a step back for a moment and really think about why that is.
Because if we’re being honest, the main reason many people aren’t wealthy yet is that they haven’t actually decided to be.
That might sound simplistic. But it’s a powerful truth, so let's look into this.
Wealth Doesn’t Happen by Accident
You don’t just stumble into financial freedom.
Wealth isn’t a happy accident – it’s the result of deliberate, consistent decisions made over a long period of time.
You see, many people wish for wealth.
They hope one day they’ll wake up and own that portfolio of properties… or have that business ticking away, generating passive income… or finally feel free from financial stress.
But hope alone is not a strategy. And wishing never made anyone rich.
The truth is, unless you make a conscious decision to become wealthy – and then back that up with action, discipline, and long-term planning – it’s probably not going to happen.
This is something I’ve seen time and again over my 50 years in property.
The investors who make it big aren’t always the smartest or the luckiest – they’re the most committed.
They’ve made wealth-building a non-negotiable.
Comfort Is the Enemy of Wealth
We’re living in a time where short-term gratification is just a click away. Food, entertainment, shopping, scrolling – it’s all instant.
So it’s no surprise that the idea of delayed gratification – putting off pleasure now to enjoy greater rewards later – feels like a hard sell.
But if you want long-term wealth, delayed gratification isn’t optional – it’s essential.
Here’s the hard truth: most people aren’t prepared to do what it takes to become wealthy.
They’re not prepared to go without, to live below their means, or to invest when it feels scary or uncertain.
Instead, they fall into the trap of lifestyle creep – where their expenses rise in lockstep with their income.
A pay rise means a new car, better clothes, and more dinners out. Before they know it, they’re stuck in a cycle of consumption instead of creation.
And it’s not entirely their fault. Society encourages this. We’re told to “treat ourselves,” that “YOLO,” that “life’s too short.”
And sure, life’s to be enjoyed – but if you want real financial freedom, you have to think long-term.
Note: If you do the easy things now, you'll have a hard life later, if you do the hard things now, you'll have an easier life later
There’s No Quick Fix
One of the most common traps people fall into is chasing get-rich-quick schemes.
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- Also read:This week’s Australian Property Market Update – Latest Data, State by State September 23rd 2025
It’s easy to be seduced by the latest fad – whether it’s crypto, cheap stocks, off-the-plan apartments, buying in cheap regional towns, or some spruiker’s promise of guaranteed returns.
Tip: But as I always say: “If it sounds too good to be true… it probably is.”
The road to wealth isn’t sexy. It’s slow, strategic, and at times, boring.
It involves budgeting, saving, investing wisely, learning from your mistakes, and holding on through the cycles.
Real wealth is built through discipline, not dopamine.
So… What’s the Real Difference Between the Wealthy and the Rest?
Let’s break it down:
-
They take responsibility.
They don’t blame the government, the market, or their upbringing. They own their financial future. They realise they are the pilot of their life, not a passenger being taken along for a ride. -
They invest in their financial education.
The wealthy read, learn, ask questions, and surround themselves with experts. They prepared to pay for advice, while the poor get their advice for free from the Internet. -
They live below their means – and invest the difference.
Whether it’s shares, property, or business, they put their money to work. -
They play the long game.
They understand that compound growth takes time, and they’re willing to wait. -
They make wealth a priority.
Not a hobby. Not a side project. A serious commitment.
What Can You Do Right Now?
Here’s what I’d suggest:
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Audit your beliefs.
Are you subconsciously telling yourself wealth isn’t for people “like you”? That investing is risky? That you’ll get started next year? -
Set clear goals.
Not vague ones like “I want to be rich.” Specific ones like “I want to own three investment properties worth $3 million by 2030.” -
Take action.
Whether it’s speaking to a strategist, refinancing your home loan, or starting a side hustle – get moving. -
Stay the course.
Property markets will rise and fall. Rates will go up and down. Media headlines will swing from doom to boom. Don’t get distracted.
Final Thoughts
If you’re not wealthy yet, don’t beat yourself up.
But also – don’t make excuses.
Start today by deciding that you’re going to change your financial future. Make wealth a must, not a maybe.
Because once you truly decide, you’ll start to notice opportunities, people, and resources that you were blind to before.
And over time, with the proper guidance and a solid strategy, you’ll join the ranks of those who made it.
And if you're looking for a safe pair of hands to guide you there, why don't you have a wealth discovery chat with a Metropole wealth strategist? Just click here to organise a time.
Over the years we have helped thousands of Australians safely build intergenerational wealth through strategic property and wealth advice. This financial freedom has given them more choices in their lives.
When you contact us, you’ll find we have a no-pressure approach, as we recognise our services don't suit everyone.
Please leave your details in the form below. We’ll have an initial chat to answer your questions and then you’ll be invited to a no-commitment Zoom consultation with one of our Wealth Strategists to:
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